11-1801 GARAGE PLAN -Carriage House Plan – 1-Bed, 1-Bath, 429 SF

Carriage House Garage Apartment Plan with Classic Gable Front Design

A charming and efficient accessory dwelling unit offering 429 heated sq. ft., traditional styling, and a flexible layout ideal for rental income, guest housing, or private living quarters.

This beautifully proportioned Carriage House garage apartment blends timeless architectural character with modern functionality. Designed as an efficient ADU that complements a wide range of primary homes, this plan delivers a compact yet comfortable living space above a spacious two-car garage. Its steep gable roof, clean horizontal siding, brick foundation accents, and traditional dormer window create a welcoming façade suited for suburban neighborhoods, rural settings, and narrow-lot properties.

Classic Exterior Design & Architectural Character

The exterior showcases crisp horizontal siding paired with handsome brick accents along the foundation line. This combination provides durability, visual warmth, and understated sophistication. The large black garage door adds bold contrast, while the centered dormer window introduces natural light and enhances the symmetrical gable-front elevation.

The compelling simplicity of this exterior allows the structure to stand confidently on its own or blend tastefully with an existing home. Whether positioned beside a main residence, behind it as a backyard ADU, or placed on a rural parcel for a private retreat, the design promises charm and long-lasting appeal.

Upper-Level Living Quarters

The 429 sq. ft. heated living area is thoughtfully arranged to maximize comfort and efficiency. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for small households, renters, or visiting guests. Inside, you’ll find:

• One private bedroom sized for a full or queen bed with room for additional furnishings.
• One full bathroom offering privacy and convenience.
• An open living area suitable for lounging, dining, or remote work.
• Natural light flowing through the dormer window, brightening the main living space and making it feel more expansive.

This layout is exceptionally adaptable—it can function as a long-term rental, an Airbnb suite, or a dedicated guest space for friends and family. Its manageable scale also keeps ongoing heating, cooling, and upkeep costs low, making it an attractive investment for property owners.

Garage & Storage Solutions

The main level features 612 sq. ft. of unheated garage space, offering a wealth of flexibility beyond simple vehicle storage. Homeowners often use this area for:

• Workshops and hobby areas
• Seasonal storage
• Tools, equipment, and recreational gear
• Home gym or studio space

The straightforward rectangular footprint and slab foundation ensure efficient construction and long-term durability. Ample wall space offers opportunities for shelving, cabinetry, or workspace customization.

Why Homeowners Love Carriage House Designs

Carriage House plans have become increasingly popular for their ability to solve multiple property needs in a single, attractive structure. This plan is especially valued for its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and compact footprint. Common uses include:

• An income-generating rental apartment
• A separate living space for extended family
• A private home office or creative studio
• An official ADU that aligns with zoning requirements
• A garage plus upper-level retreat for guests or older children

The architectural charm and efficient footprint resonate with homeowners seeking to expand livable space without altering the main house. To explore more architectural inspiration for ADUs and secondary dwellings, visit ArchDaily.

Construction Advantages & What’s Included

Every version of this plan includes generous construction-ready resources built to simplify your project. With your purchase, you receive:

• CAD + PDF files for easy adjustments and builder coordination.
• Unlimited build license—construct the design as many times as desired.
• Free foundation options including slab, crawlspace, or basement.
• Engineering included to ensure structural integrity and code compliance.
• Affordable modifications compared to typical industry pricing.

These features streamline the construction process, reduce long-term expenses, and allow buyers to customize the plan to fit their land or lifestyle needs.

Optimized for Narrow Lots & Accessory Installations

With its compact 24-foot width and efficient rectangular form, this Carriage House plan excels on narrow or deep lots. The vertical layout reduces the footprint while expanding usable interior space—an ideal configuration for urban infill, alley-loaded ADUs, or backyard additions.

The steep gable roof enhances structural efficiency while contributing to the classic architectural profile. Its adaptable façade makes it a strong candidate for blending with Colonial, Traditional, Modern Traditional, and Farmhouse-influenced main homes.

FAQs

Can I use this plan as an ADU?
Yes. Its size, layout, and included amenities make it perfectly suited for ADU requirements in many municipalities.

Can the exterior materials be changed?
Absolutely. While shown in horizontal siding with brick accents, the plan can be modified to include board-and-batten siding, stone, shingle textures, or alternate trim packages.

Does the apartment feel large enough?
The dormer window and smart layout provide excellent light flow and space utilization, giving the interior an open, comfortable feel.

Are plan modifications available?
Yes—layout changes, material swaps, roofline adjustments, and structural modifications can be accommodated.

What is the standard foundation?
The plan comes with a slab foundation, but crawlspace and basement options are included at no cost.

Build With Confidence

This Carriage House garage apartment offers a compelling blend of practicality, charm, and architectural clarity. Whether your goal is added income, guest lodging, or flexible private living space, this plan delivers exceptional value through its smart design and included construction resources.

Start your project knowing you have a timeless, efficient, and buildable design ready to go—engineered, editable, and adaptable to your vision.